Before you start shopping for a home, ask these questions (and sub-questions) to make sure you’re on the right track to homeownership.
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What do I want?
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Walkability?
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Schools?
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Gyms, yoga, swimming, hiking?
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Cultural or sports centers?
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Crime rate?
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Commute?
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Public transportation?
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Type of house?
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Single-family? Condo?
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Bed and bath count? Kitchen size?
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Yard and outdoor amenities?
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What can I afford?
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How much income do I have?
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What are my expenses?
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What will taxes be?
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What will insurance look like?
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What’s the current mortgage interest rate?
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Am I financially prepared?
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How’s my credit?
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How much do I have saved?
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For a down payment?
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For closing costs?
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For repairs or other issues?
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How do I make the best bid possible?
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What’s a fair price to offer?
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Should I go above or below asking price?
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What contingencies should I request?
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What perks can I add to make my offer better?